Condition guide

Depression and your CASA medical.

Depression is one of the most common reasons pilots contact us. A history of a depressive episode is not automatically disqualifying — CASA is interested in current status, treatment response, stability and relapse risk.

Overview

Depression & flying — the honest picture

Major depressive disorder is common in the general population and in pilots. Fear of losing a medical often keeps pilots from seeking help, which paradoxically makes both safety and certification harder.

Well-treated depression with a period of demonstrated stability is generally compatible with continued or renewed certification. The key is a defensible, structured presentation of the current picture.

Aeromedical considerations

How CASA typically looks at this

CASA typically wants to see: the diagnosis and severity, treatment received (therapy, medication or both), current symptom status on validated measures, medication stability and side-effects, and evidence of functional capacity.

Some antidepressants are considered on a case-by-case basis with stability requirements; your DAME can advise on current CASA guidance. We can provide the underlying assessment and reporting.

Our assessment

What we do and how we report

Structured DSM-5-TR interview, validated measures (for example DASS-21, PHQ-9, K10, Beck Depression Inventory), suicide risk screening, treatment and medication history, and functional review. Reports are written to the structure CASA reviewers expect.

  • Current diagnosis and severity, with validated measures
  • Treatment received, response and current status
  • Medication history, current regimen and stability
  • Risk factors, protective factors and relapse risk assessment
  • Functional capacity for safety-critical duties and recommendations

FAQs

Common questions from pilots and DAMEs

+Can I keep flying if I'm on an antidepressant?
In many cases yes, on a case-by-case basis with demonstrated stability. Your DAME can advise on current CASA position; we provide the assessment and reporting to support the conversation.
+How long does CASA usually want me stable before considering certification?
Specific timeframes depend on the medication and clinical picture and change over time. We do not quote fixed timeframes; we present your current stability and clinical trajectory accurately.
+Do I have to disclose past therapy that I paid for privately?
Honest disclosure of clinically significant mental health history is expected on aeromedical forms. Non-disclosure has been the trigger for many enforcement actions; supported disclosure is a much safer strategy.

General information only, not clinical or aeromedical advice for your individual case. Aviation Psychology Australia provides an independent clinical opinion and does not determine whether a medical certificate is issued — final certification decisions remain with CASA and the relevant aviation medical decision-makers. We are not part of, employed by or endorsed by the Civil Aviation Safety Authority.